The atmosphere in the temporary control room was tense as officers and negotiators gathered around a table, looking serious. Captain Rodriguez pounded his fist on the table, expressing his frustration through his voice. "Dammit! That negotiator just made everything worse. We've lost a hostage, and now those bastards inside are even more trigger-happy."Officer Chen, a seasoned veteran, leaned forward. "We need to change our approach, Cap. What if we send someone in with food? It could give us eyes on the inside."Rodriguez nodded slowly. "It's risky, but it might be our best shot. Who do we send?"As the officers debated, Miles stood at the edge of the group, listening intently. The police director noticed him and approached with a frown."Mr. Miles, this is a dangerous situation. You should leave for your own safety."Miles shook his head. "I can't just walk away, Director. Not when lives are at stake."The director sighed. "I appreciate your concern, but this is a job for trained p

Captain Rodriguez shook his head grimly. "We can't risk it. Not with a gun to his chest. We need to wait for an opening." Back inside, Miles felt the cold press of the gun barrel against his ribs. He understood the urgency of taking action, but a single misstep could put everyone in the bank at risk. "Pay attention," Miles said in a calm tone, "you're in a difficult situation."“I understand. However, murdering captives will not enhance your circumstances. Why not discuss this? Perhaps we can discover a solution that avoids causing harm to anyone else.”The leader hesitated, his grip on the gun loosening slightly. "You think you can negotiate better than that idiot the cops sent earlier?" Miles nodded slowly. "I'm willing to try if you are. What do you say we start by letting some of these people go? Show of good faith." For a moment, it seemed like the leader might consider it. Then his eyes hardened. "Nice try, but I wasn't born yesterday. You're stalling." He turned to his accom

Stepping out of the bank, Miles was momentarily blinded by the bright sunlight. Blinking, he adjusted his eyes and found himself instantly encircled by nervous cops. "Mr. Miles! Are you alright?" The director rushed forward, concern etched on his face.Miles nodded, his expression grave. "I'm fine, but we have a situation inside. A forced attack won't work. We'll lose hostages."Captain Rodriguez frowned. "What are you suggesting?"Miles took a deep breath. "I've negotiated a deal. They're willing to release all the hostages in exchange for keeping me and Elena as key hostages."A collective gasp went through the gathered officers. Sergeant Frond, a stocky man with a perpetual scowl, stepped forward. "Are you out of your mind? We can't let them keep Elena!""Calm down, Sergeant," the director interjected. "Mr. Autumn, explain your reasoning."Miles nodded. "It's our best shot at getting everyone out alive. The robbers believe I'm the son of a major leader in the capital. They think I

The robber's eyes widened. "How did you-""Let's just say I have connections," Miles interrupted. "Now, shall we?"The head robber nodded to his three accomplices. "You two, grab the money. You, keep an eye on the cop. And you," he said, pointing his gun at Miles, "you're driving."As they made their way to the car, Elena whispered to Miles, "What are you doing? This is insane!"Miles muttered quietly, "Believe me, I have a strategy." The group crammed into the vehicle, Miles at the wheel while the thief's leader sat in the front, holding a gun aimed at Miles. Elena was wedged between two thieves in the rear, while the fourth one sat alongside the money bags. As they pulled away from the bank, police sirens blared to life. The head robber tensed. "Lose them!"Miles navigated the streets with skill, weaving through traffic and taking sharp turns. Elena watched in amazement as he seemed to anticipate every move of their pursuers.After several tense minutes, the sirens began to fade.

Miles opened the front door of his house and guided Elena in. Both of them appeared unkempt, their clothing showing signs of their recent difficult experience. "Feel free to relax," Miles said, pointing towards the living room. "I will get water for both of us." Elena settled into the luxurious sofa, grimacing a bit while extending her arm. "Thanks, Miles. For everything."Miles returned with two glasses of water, handing one to Elena. "Don't mention it. It's what partners do, right?"Elena took a sip, then set the glass down. She stood up, facing Miles. "No, really. I mean it. What you did today... it was incredible. I don't know how to thank you."Before Miles could respond, Elena came up to him and gave him a tight hug. Taken off guard, Miles hesitated briefly before returning the embrace. At that instant, the front door opened again. "Dad, we have returned!" exclaimed a young voice. Miles became motionless, his eyes becoming larger at the sight of his wife Lola entering with t